AS Course Outline
What is Mathematics?
Mathematics is a mental construct arising from the need to classify and quantify the world
around. From simplistic counting systems, mathematics has extended to encompass such esoteric
ideas as multidimensional space and complex numbers. Mathematics provides a remarkable tool
for describing and understanding our reality. It is of vital importance in the sciences, psychology,
economics and engineering to name only obvious examples.
Statistics helps us to understand circumstances as diverse as variation in biology and the stock
market. Mechanics enables us to build skyscrapers, bridges and ever more advanced
transportation. Both are applicable from the scale of stars to the sub-atomic. Above all,
mathematics is a challenging, rewarding and mentally stimulating activity, enjoyable in its own
right.
What Skills Will Students Develop When Studying AS Level Mathematics?
AS Level mathematics extends the approach of GCSE and challenges students to think on a more
rigorous basis. New topics, such as calculus and series build the concept of finite and infinite
quantities. Multi-stage problem solving is taught, for example in the context of geometrical
reasoning and trigonometry. A strong algebraic vein runs through the course. Functions covered
build from the linear and quadratic forms to general polynomials and all the fundamental
functions are introduced.
In the applied module, students will develop a sense of mathematics as a tool for modelling the
real world. They are made aware of the reasons for, as well as the restrictions of, mathematical
models. Students learn to form, analyse and solve equations. They interpret results in a variety of
contexts.
These skills usefully support study in other subjects notably the sciences, economics, business,
engineering, computing and psychology. The academic study of mathematics teaches logical
sequencing and problem solving.
Mathematics is a prerequisite for many degree courses including sciences, economics and
computing, whilst teaching skills useful to all. A mathematics degree opens doors in fields such
as management, finance, computing, research and teaching.
| Mathematics (EDX Board) AS Specification |
|
Unit 1
33% of
AS
90
minutes
|
Core 1 (C1):
Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry, arithmetic series, differentiation
and integration
|
|
Unit 2
33% of
AS
90
minutes
|
Core 2 (C2):
Algebra and functions, equation of a circle, geometric series, trigonometry,
exponentials and logarithms, geometric interpretation of calculus.
|
|
Unit 3
33% of
AS
90
minutes
|
Either Mechanics 1 (M1):
Modelling physical systems, 2D vectors, motion in a straight line, Newton’s
laws, friction, applying vectors to 2D forces.
Or Statistics 1 (S1):
Statistical models, representing and summarising data, probability, correlation
and regression, discrete random variables and the normal distribution.
|
Structure of the Course
The course will be taught for six lessons per week, as three 1½ hr double lessons. Homework is
set at the end of each session and deadlines for admissions must be adhered to. A full set of notes
and examination questions is provided. Further reading of formal texts and popular science
books related to mathematics is strongly advised.
Recommended Texts
Heinemann Modular Mathematics for Edexcel Various Authors Heinemann
Module books supporting each unit of the course
Who do buses come in threes? Wyndham & Eastaway Robson Books
Zero: Biography of a dangerous idea Seife Souvenir Press Ltd
